The Best Vehicles For Winter Driving In Montana

Montana is known to pack a punch when it comes to winter. While some winters are milder, others can last half the year, or more. Even though we are still waiting for our first "big snow", rest assured it's coming, and it's important to be prepared when it does.

From snow to wind and ice, if you're new to winter driving, you will want to ensure that you have a well-equipped vehicle to deal with the conditions across the state. For many, all-wheel or 4-wheel drive is a must. Not only does it provide better traction, but there is also a sense of security that comes along with it.

READ MORE: Where does Montana rank when it comes to the most brutal winters?

However, remember that just because a vehicle has all-wheel or 4-wheel drive, doesn't mean that you won't have issues when driving in Montana winters. If you're a winter weather driving newbie, one of the best things you can do is practice.  We suggest an empty parking lot with no other cars around.

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Which is better, all-wheel or 4-wheel drive?

That's a great question! If you were to ask 10 people, you might get 10 answers. However, the truth is, it depends. If you plan on driving in a more populated area on a highway, an all-wheel drive could be your best bet. If you plan on driving in a more rural area where the roads might not be plowed as often, then a 4-wheel drive vehicle might be a better fit.

Which vehicle should I choose when it comes to driving in Montana during winter?

For many Montanans, there is a certain brand of vehicle that they're loyal to and while almost all brands produce quality all-wheel and 4-wheel drive vehicles, some brands have a stellar reputation when it comes to winter driving.

The folks over at US News and World Report came out with their top picks for the best winter vehicles for the 2023/2024 winter season and many Montanans will not be surprised by a couple of the top choices.